There have been tremendous investments by U.S. , Mexican and European firms, with many large resorts, condominiums, timeshares, and amusement complexes all along the coast, plus there is now a leading highway. Things are less commercialized, as you go further south, and there are still some distant, quiet hamlets. Cozumel has changed, but not as much as many of the coastal regions. Winter is approaching quicker than you can say brrrr--and the holidays are just around the corner. From Aspen to New Zealand, T+L has uncovered the perfect trips for travelers of every kind: beachcombers scouting the next popular destination, culture buffs in search of enlightenment, foodies looking for that out-of- the-average Christmas feast, or sybarites in need of some serious high-altitude pampering.
Here, the season's finest. Perched atop the edge of a valley overlooking the Five Sisters waterfalls, Gaia Riverlodge provides a choice of 16 beautifully appointed private cabanas varying in size as well as location. With design characteristics that comprise Belizean hardwoods, traditional bay leaf thatched roofs and richly varnished mahogany interiors, each cabana is totally screened for comfort, and features panoramic windows or a private veranda with hammock, ceiling fans, a bathroom decorated with hand-painted Mexican tiles, beds with pillow top mattresses for an excellent night's sleep, and Matouk and Frette linens.
Ka'ana was created for people who appreciate the refined luxuries of a world class resort, yet yearn to experience new frontiers. Perfectly located in the middle of everything a Central American holiday could maybe offer, Ka'ana is a haven of understated luxury with an extensive wine cellar, adjoining to pristine jungle, distinguished culinary experiences and a considered design style. Experience a real high-end vacation, just steps from the numerous historical Mayan ruins of the jungle in Belize.
A. With 10 days, I would advocate just two locations - Cayo and likely Ambergris Caye. With two complete weeks, you could add a third location. I'd suggest either a distant caye lodge at one of the atolls, such as Turneffe Lodge or Blackbird Caye or Lighthouse Reef Resort (packages are usually week-long but off season you can normally get half-week bundles) OR at Placencia or Hopkins.
Found in the scenic Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, Gaia Riverlodge (formerly Five Sisters Lodge) has long been one of Belize's most celebrated ecotourist destinations. Inspired by the property's natural beauty, the resort overlooks stunning waterfalls located right on the grounds of the hostel.The dazzling clear water of the shimmering spray of the falls the nearby river and the comparing green of the forest are accentuated by the lodge's exquisite landscaping, which showcases a wide selection of trees and indigenous bushes, flowers and orchids. HH Estel's-by-the-Sea, Barrier Reef Drive, tel. 501-226-2019. Estella Worthington and Charlie run this little beachfront eatery near Central Park. With its sand flooring and piano (you ain?t heard piano till you hear it played on a sand floor), this place reeks with atmosphere. It?s a favourite place for breakfast, with all the usual egg-and-bacon principles including fried potatoes, but you? ll also take pleasure in the burritos and huevos rancheros. Opens closed Tuesdays. Average.
